Severe winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
